WASHINGTON — In advance of President Barack Obama’s Leaders’ Summit on Refugees, U. S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) and 30 members of InterAction — the largest U.S. alliance of international NGOs — announced a three-year pledge to collectively invest $1.2 billion in private resources on global humanitarian assistance efforts.

According to the UN refugee agency, there are more than 65 million displaced people in the world today, the highest number since World War II. By utilizing donations from individuals, foundations and corporations, the 30 NGOs will work to provide urgent medical assistance, food and nutrition security, shelter, education and other essential services to refugees and displaced populations across the globe.

“New immigrants and refugees to America have always relied on the kindness and generosity of their communities. What we have done here is to take a moment to quantify the significant contributions made by regular Americans to welcome newcomers on a regular basis,” said Lavinia Limón, President and CEO of USCRI.

Over the three-year commitment period, InterAction will track and annually announce the total private investments by participating member NGOs in humanitarian aid related to refugee services and relief. The pledge announcement comes in advance of the White House’s Sept. 20 Leaders’ Summit on Refugees. Global leaders present at the summit are expected to make new and significant pledges to help address the global refugee crisis.

“InterAction is proud to represent 30 of its members in making this important pledge,” said InterAction CEO Sam Worthington. “The urgent need for action on the global refugee crisis is clear. And today’s pledge announcement represents a down payment on the ongoing commitment of U.S. civil society to work together with public and private partners to help displaced populations in a time of historic humanitarian need.”